Inside: How to Be a Great Dog Owner. Collaborative post.
Ask any dog owner, and they will tell you how much joy a pup brings. For those new to dog ownership or experienced owners looking to improve, there is always something you can do to be better for your furry friend. Being a great dog owner goes beyond just covering the basics.
Dogs have physical and mental needs like humans, and meeting those needs can be both challenging and straightforward. Since your dog depends entirely on you, raising your game is essential.
Here’s how to be an outstanding pet owner and treat your dog well.
Research the Dog Breed
Every dog breed has its characteristics, challenges, and pros and cons. The more you know about your dog breed, the better idea you have of what to do to keep your dog happy. A dog like a French bulldog or pug is more passive than an Australian or German shepherd who requires lots of activity.
High-Quality Dog Food
A healthy diet comprised of high-quality, nutritious dog food is necessary. Brands like Acana dog food are highly recommended. Factors relating to what to feed your dog include their age, coat, size, and any health problems that may necessitate dietary restrictions. Regarding size, you also want to ensure you get their portions right to prevent obesity or overfeeding.
And don’t forget their treats too – these also need to be of high quality. Yak chews are a great option because they are made with natural ingredients and are fantastic for keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy.
Research Dog Food Diets
There are many types of dog food and dog food diets, each claiming they contain the right ingredients to make your furry friend happy. It’s only sometimes true. Read the label and research different dog foods online. Always do your due diligence. If you switch your dog to another food, transition them slowly to avoid tummy upsets.
Train Your Dog
A dog loves to please and learn. Teaching them to do the trick or working on training your dog stimulates their brain, improves their mood, and can help with bonding as well. Dogs enjoy training sessions, which everyone can benefit from. A few minutes a day of dog training can also regulate behavioural issues.
Set Aside Time for Your Dog
Every day, set aside some time with your dog. Ensure they receive physical touch, walks, and time with you. Even if it’s just twenty minutes together on the couch watching TV, that’s an interaction that benefits your dog in a big way.
If you don’t have the time to dedicate to your dog in this and other ways, they could end up lonely or depressed. Interaction is extremely important.
Slow Down Your Walks
Dogs like to stop and sniff. Slow down if you would like to cruise on your walks with them. When a dog sniffs new smells, it’s mental stimulation. Modifying your path or taking your dog on walks in new places also serves you well. If your dog breed requires lots of activity, walks are an important part of the daily routine of caring for your puppy.
Toys and Interactive Play
Dogs love to play. Ensure your dog has lots of toys and a diverse set. Different toys stimulate different parts of the brain, such as a tug-of-war rope for bonding or puzzle feeders for reward-based playtime. Try some interactive play, such as hide-and-seek or racing each other. If your dog is friendly with you, they may enjoy some more physical play as well.
Up-to-Date Vaccinations
Ensure you take your dog to the vet and get them up-to-date on their vaccinations. Do not wait to treat health issues. No pet owner wants their dog to suffer. As much as the expense can be, waiting to treat a health issue will likely only make it costly to resolve in the long run.
Illness and Injury Care
An adult dog may display one or more of these signs of illness or injury: change in appetite, social withdrawal, acting clingy, whining and barking, hiding out of sight, or excessive licking. No one knows your dog like you do. When their behaviour changes, something’s up, and, at that point, they should be brought in to receive veterinary care. Certain conditions, like IVDD in corgis, require early recognition and specialised treatment, so it’s always worth getting professional advice quickly.
Socialize with Your Dog
Dogs are pack animals. Meeting other people, dogs, and animals can help them become well-adjusted, calm, and happy. Take your dog to a local park to sniff and meet other dogs. You can also make play dates with friends and dogs for fun playtime.
Pick Up After Your Dog
This tip benefits your dog’s perception and community: Pick up after your dog. It takes little time and effort and prevents problems with neighbours or local officials.